Sunday, October 12, 2014

Dealing With Discomfort During Pregnancy

There are many normal discomforts during pregnancy. The uterus will grow up to 18 times its normal size, and the breasts and nipples will become larger. You are also bound to gain weight.

You may also experience either increased or decreased sexual desire, changes in hair texture and in body hair, and other discomforts that are completely new to you, if you are a first-time mom. Some of these changes are normal, and here are some of them:

• Abdominal pain, aches

• Backache

• Bloating

• Breast discharge

• Constipation

• Contractions that are painless and irregular (Braxton-Hicks contractions)

• Difficulty sleeping

• Dizziness

• Flatulence (passing gas)

• Fluid retention (swelling)

• Forgetfulness

• Headaches

• Heartburn

• Hemorrhoids

• Increased saliva

• Leg cramps

• Mood changes

• Nasal congestion (stuffiness)

• Nausea, vomiting (morning sickness)

• Nosebleeds

• Rashes

• Sensitive gums

• Shortness of breath

• Skin changes

• Spotting

• Sweating

• Tiredness

• Urinating more often

• Vaginal discharge

• Varicose veins

To avoid nausea and vomiting that accompany the first trimester (or happen throughout the pregnancy if you are carrying twins or more), you may opt to:

• Slowly eat a dry cracker, dry bread, or dry cereal before getting out of bed.

• Drink small cups of ginger or peppermint tea.

• Avoid sudden movements when getting out of bed.

• Have several small meals throughout the day instead of fewer larger ones.

• Drink fluids between meals rather than with your meals.

• Avoid greasy and fried foods.

• Drink a little fruit juice or no-caffeine soda when you feel nauseated between meals.

• Avoid strong spices and odors.

Mothers-to-be may also experience heartburn as the uterus increases in size puts pressure on the stomach and intestines. To prevent heartburn, you follow these tips:

• Have five or six small meals a day. As the fetus grows it pushes against the stomach. There is less and less room for large meals.

• Chew food slowly.

• Don’t lie down for at least an hour after eating.

• Wear clothes that are loose around the waist.

• Raise their heads with several pillows while sleeping.

Constipation may also be a problem as their gestation progresses. Avoiding constipation can also help protect against hemorrhoids. To prevent constipation, you may want to:

• Increase the amount of liquids and fiber in your diet.

• Eat more dried or raw foods and vegetables, including their skins.

• Use whole-grain bread and cereals, especially oats.

• Exercise.

• Have meals at regular times.

• Ask your clinician for a safe laxative if these tips don’t work for you.